Knowing You Are Ready for Baptism

Getting baptized is not a decision that should be taken lightly.

Making a religious decision on baptism is important, and it is a choice that shouldn't be taken lightly. Perhaps you were baptized as a child but feel being baptized again is important. Maybe you are new to religion and feel you are prepared to take the next step. But how do you know you are ready? It's a difficult question to answer, because there is no one way to tell for sure whether or not you are ready to be baptized. That being said, there are some signs to look for.

You Have Been Saved

Being saved is something most churches will require before they allow you to be baptized. After all, that is what baptism is all about. In order to be saved, most churches will say you need to have accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord. It means to repent for all of your sins and accept that the only way to get into heaven is through Jesus dying on the cross. This is an important first step in the process baptism.

Realize Why Baptism Is Important **

Some people don't understand why baptism is important. Most church leaders do not feel baptism is a requirement to receive salvation. However, it is an outward symbol of your faith and a commitment to be a follower for the rest of your days. Jesus himself was baptized. Plus, when you look at some of the following verses, you can see the significance of getting baptized:

• "As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.'" Matthew 3:16-17
• "Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you." Matthew 28:19-20

According to most churches, Jesus was the only human to ever live a sinless life. Yet even he was baptized. This shows baptism isn't only meant to be a way to repent for all of your sins and gain access to heaven (because Jesus, of course, already knew he would go to heaven). It is an outward commitment to follow God. Knowing this can help you decide whether or not you are ready to be baptized.

Speak With Your Pastor

Speaking with your pastor or church leader is a good step to take. He or she can let you know what steps the church may require, such as classes or counseling. You can also get advice as to what he or she would consider as good signs you are ready to be baptized into that particular church.

Take a Class

Whether your church offers one or not, taking a class can be highly beneficial for you. You can learn more about the bible, find out more about the true meaning of baptism, and figure out whether it's something you are ready to go through with. There are a variety of classes offered online, which means it should not be difficult at all to find one that correlates with your schedule. Try to make sure the class you take lines up with the beliefs of your church.

Being baptized is a huge and important decision. Make sure you take all of the right steps so you know whether or not you are ready. This means finding out more about being baptized, speaking with your pastor, and considering taking a class.